Nothing is more inconvenient and frustrating than a non-working toilet in the home. Unfortunately, plumbers say they are vulnerable to a host of issues due to improper operation and lack of maintenance. Here are several common problems and how to help protect your household's toilets from costly and permanent damage.

The Top 3 Toilet Mishaps

1. Leaks

By far, this issue is among the most prevalent reasons to call the plumber. Most toilets have a series of sealants to guard against leakage. Over time, they can start to deteriorate, which creates openings for water to seep out. Professional plumbers will inspect all seals, including those between the tank and bowl and around the base and mounting bolts to determine if they need replacement or additional durable caulking to stop the leaks. 

2. Slow Flushes

If the water is slow to drain after flushing, the culprit could be a clogged toilet. In many cases, a rapid thrust of a plunger inside the commode will loosen up the trapped debris if the backup is minor. Larger obstructions will typically require professional service to identify the cause of slow flushing. 

As a rule of thumb, certain items should never be flushed down toilets, including facial wipes, paper towels, cigarette butts, kitty litter, and feminine products. Even if items are labeled "flushable," plumbers still advising tossing them in a trash bin to avoid toilet backups. 

3. Low Water Fill-Ups

After each flush, water will automatically fill up in the toilet bowl to the proper level. If the water is too low, the causes can run the gamut. A cracked toilet bowl, faulty vent, or damaged fill tube or fill valve are among the issues. If low water fill-ups are occurring frequently, schedule a plumber's inspection to determine the culprit so that the appropriate repair services are conducted.

When it comes to the expert diagnosing and restoration of malfunctioning toilets, Murphy's Plumbing Co. in Mebane, NC, is the area's trusted specialist. The licensed insured contractor has served the community for more than 30 years with extensive experience on all types of residential toilet repairs and maintenance. You can also count on the team of certified technicians for clear communication, emergency service, and getting the job done right the first time. If your home's toilets are not working properly, call the community's reliable plumber at (919) 563-5165 for an inspection. Visit the website for the complete lineup of services.